Are your energy bills getting out of control? In the quest to lower this utility bill, many of us focus on the usual suspects like heating and air conditioning systems. However, there may be lesser-known culprits around your home silently inflating your energy costs.
These energy costs can sneak up on you and add up over time. Here are 10 unexpected items that might be quietly draining your wallet.
1. Old Refrigerators
Old refrigerators are notorious energy hogs. These outdated appliances drain significantly more electricity than newer, energy-efficient models. Even if the fridge is just being used as an extra storage space in the garage, it could be costing you more than it’s worth. Consider recycling it and upgrading to a more efficient model to cut down on energy costs.
2. Televisions
Flatscreen televisions, particularly those that are not energy-efficient, can consume a surprising amount of power, similar to a refrigerator. Some people fall asleep with the TV on, while others spend over 3 hours per day with their eyes glued to the screen. Cut back on the time you’re watching TV and stop falling asleep with it on at night. You should also opt for energy-efficient models or adjust settings where applicable to lower your energy bill even further.
3. Aquariums
Aquariums can be a beautiful addition to any room, but they are also energy killers. The combined use of water pumps, heaters, and lighting can add a significant amount to your energy costs each month. To minimize expenses consider using a timer for lights. You can also check online or ask your local pet store or veterinary clinic for energy-efficient pumps and heaters.
4. Game Consoles
Game consoles, particularly when left on standby mode, can consume a lot of energy. Many users leave their consoles on standby to maintain game updates and downloads. However, this convenience comes at a cost. Turning off the console completely when not in use or using power-saving modes can greatly reduce this drain.
5. Plug-In Air Fresheners or Night Lights
Plug-in air fresheners might seem relatively harmless, but they can draw power continuously when plugged into an outlet. The same goes for night lights that are left plugged into the wall outlet all day, every day.
Over time, the cost of operating these can add up. Alternatives like essential oil diffusers or manually sprayed air fresheners can provide fragrance without the continuous energy drain. For the night lights, unplug them during the day when they’re not needed.
6. Bath Fans
Bath fans are essential for removing moisture and preventing mold. However, leaving them on for hours can lead to unnecessary energy use. Installing a timer switch can help ensure they are running only when necessary. You’ll be surprised by how much you’re reducing energy waste with this simple change to your setup.
7. Underfloor Heating
Do you want to add a touch of luxury to your home? You may consider installing underfloor heating, which is a method of heating indoor spaces through the flooring. Keep in mind that underfloor heating can be a significant energy drain if not managed correctly. Using a programmable thermostat to reduce heating during hours when it’s not needed, or only activating it in frequently used rooms, can help manage its energy consumption.
8. External Power Supplies
External power supplies for laptops, phones, and other electronics often continue to draw power even when the device is fully charged or disconnected. This may explain why your energy bills are so much higher each month. Unplugging these chargers when not in use or using a power strip to turn off multiple loads at once can reduce this passive energy use. Set this up in your office, so you’re paying less on your utility bills each month.
9. Decorative Outdoor Lighting
Some people feel really happy coming home to a beautiful display of outdoor lighting in their front year. While this undeniably looks lovely, decorative outdoor lighting can also lead to increased energy bills if left on unnecessarily. Using timers or motion sensors to control these lights can ensure they are only on when needed, thus conserving energy. Invest in a few of these timers for your yard and enjoy the amount you save on your energy bills each month.
10. Coffee Makers
With an estimated 154 million adults drinking coffee in the United States, there’s no doubt that most home have a coffee maker. These coffee makers, especially those with clocks, lights, and programmable features, use more electricity than you might expect.
Unplug your coffee maker when it’s not in use or use a model with an automatic shut-off feature. By taking the time to do this every day, you’ll make a significant impact on your monthly utility bill.
Cut Energy Costs
You don’t have to keep shelling out your hard-earned money on high energy costs. Look for silent energy killers around your home and invest in timers and tools to help turn these items off when they’re not needed.
It all starts with small adjustments you can make right now. You’ll significantly reduce your energy consumption and feel happier every month about those lower utility bills.
Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.
Pets can sometimes experience just as much stress and anxiety as humans. Recognizing the signs your pet might be stressed is important since it helps them avoid health problems down the road.
Whether you’re a dog or cat person or like snakes or hamsters, knowing the signs your pet might be stressed helps improve their quality of life. Here are 12 signs your pet may be experiencing stress, along with tips on what could be causing the behavior and what you can do to help.
1. Changes in Appetite
A sudden increase or decrease in appetite is one of the most common signs your pet might be stressed. Your dog or cat may refuse food if they’re feeling anxious since they’re too nervous to eat. On the other hand, some pets eat more as a way to self-soothe. Either way, persistent changes in eating habits should be discussed with a veterinarian to rule out medical issues and address the potential causes of stress.
2. Excessive Grooming
Pets, especially cats, may groom themselves excessively when under stress. You will notice bald patches or skin irritations. This compulsive behavior is a self-soothing mechanism that can cause physical harm if not addressed. Monitoring grooming habits and providing distractions or environmental enrichments can help mitigate this behavior.
3. Aggression
A normally calm and friendly pet becoming aggressive can be a significant indicator of stress. This may manifest as snapping, growling, or biting in dogs, or hissing and scratching in cats. Aggression can be a defense mechanism when animals feel threatened or overwhelmed. Give your pet immediate attention to prevent escalation and ensure safety.
4. Isolation
If your pet is suddenly hiding more than usual or avoiding interaction, this could be a sign of stress. While some pets are naturally more introverted, it could be anxiety if they’re isolating themselves from the family more frequently. In this case, your pet is retreating to a safe space due to anxiety or discomfort. This may also be a sign of illness, so speak to your vet about the behavior change.
5. Pacing or Restlessness
There are many signs your pet might be stressed. For instance, an inability to settle, constant pacing, or appearing restless can indicate anxious feelings. These behaviors are often signs of nervousness and may be accompanied by whining or barking in dogs or loud mews in cats. Providing a calm and secure environment can help soothe your stressed pet.
6. Changes in Body Language
Your pet’s body language tells you a lot about how they’re feeling. Tucked tails, flattened ears, wide eyes, or a hunched posture can all be signs of stress in pets. Keep your eye on your furry friend to see if you notice any of this body language. Try to comfort your pet as soon as possible to help ease their feelings.
7. Accidents Indoors
Is your pet house-trained, but you’re still noticing puddles on the floor? It could be a clear sign of stress. In some cases, accidents inside can also be a sign of health issues. It’s important to approach this problem with patience and consult your vet as soon as possible.
8. Excessive Vocalization
If you’re hearing your dog or cat more than usual, they may be feeling anxious and stressed. Dogs may bark excessively, and cats may meow more than usual. This increase in vocalization is a way for pets to express their discomfort. Look for triggers and try to adjust your environment accordingly.
9. Decreased Activity Levels
Some dogs and cats are naturally lazy. However, a sudden lack of interest in exercise or play is a red flag for many pets. When stressed, animals may become lethargic or disinterested in activities they usually enjoy. This can also be linked to depression, which like in humans, is often connected to elevated stress levels.
10. Digestive Issues
Stress can lead to gastrointestinal problems in pets, such as diarrhea or constipation. These symptoms should not be ignored as they can also indicate more serious health issues. Visit the vet if the digestive disturbances persist. Your pet may need some kind of medication.
11. Shaking or Trembling
Dog owners may be familiar with shaking or trembling, particularly during loud noises like thunder or fireworks. This could be a reaction to a specific stressful situation. Some dogs also shake or tremble when they’re around strange people or dogs. If shaking or trembling occurs frequently without an obvious trigger, it could be a sign of chronic stress or anxiety.
12. Destructive Behavior
Chewing, scratching furniture, or tearing up items around the house are outlets for stress or anxiety in your pets. This behavior is frustrating since it causes significant damage to your home. At the same time, it could also be endangering your pet’s physical health. Work with a training school or speak with your vet directly for solutions.
Destress Your Pets
Look for any of these signs your pet might be stressed. While you can’t always fix the situation, you can at least try to make the environment more comfortable for your furry friend. Regular vet visits, consistent routines, adequate socialization, and proper training can all contribute to a happier, healthier pet. If stress symptoms persist, reach out to a professional veterinarian as soon as possible.
Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.
Celebrity scandals have always captured public attention. Whether the scandal is on the news or splashed across the pages of celebrity magazines, it gives us a glimpse into the often private and tumultuous lives of stars.
Some incidents are more high profile than others, getting media coverage and changing the world forever. From criminal charges to public disgrace, here are 10 celebrity scandals that hurt careers and shocked fans and critics alike.
1. O.J. Simpson’s Trial
O.J. Simpson was a star athlete in the NFL. However, his career was changed forever by one of the biggest celebrity scandals in recent memory.
Simpson was put on trial for the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman in 1994. Televised live, the trial featured a lengthy and dramatic court battle that ended in Simpson’s acquittal, sparking widespread public debate across America.
2. Tiger Woods’ Infidelity
In 2009, golf superstar Tiger Woods faced a major scandal when numerous women alleged they had affairs with him. This revelation led to a temporary halt in his golfing career and endorsements with EA Sports and Nike.
As far as celebrity scandals, this one had a profound impact on the golfer’s career. It significantly altered his wholesome image and brought personal details painfully into the public eye.
3. Britney Spears’ Breakdown
With hit songs like “Baby One More Time” and “Toxic,” Britney Spears is one of the most famous pop stars in the world. Everything was thrown through a loop in 2007 when the singer had a highly publicized breakdown.
Spears shaved her head and attacked a paparazzo’s car with an umbrella. Her struggles with mental health were widely discussed and led to a conservatorship under her father, sparking the #FreeBritney movement years later.
4. Lance Armstrong’s Doping
Lance Armstrong’s fall from grace was monumental. After years of vehemently denying allegations, the seven-time Tour de France winner admitted in 2013 to using performance-enhancing drugs.
Armstrong was stripped of his titles and banned from competitive cycling. His entire legacy and impact on professional cycling were severely damaged by this scandal.
5. Mel Gibson’s DUI and Anti-Semitic Tirade
Some celebrities totally damage their careers overnight. Mel Gibson, for instance, became a Hollywood joke in 2006 when he was arrested for DUI.
Driving under the influence is bad enough, but Gibson doubled down on the bad behavior by making anti-Semitic remarks to the arresting officer. The incident severely damaged his reputation and led to a public apology and years of work to rehabilitate his image and career.
6. Monica Lewinsky Scandal
Presidential scandals are often more impactful than the controversies of singers, athletes, and other famous stars. Just look at the affair between then-President Bill Clinton and White House intern Monica Lewinsky.
Lewinsky was caught in a compromising position in her famous blue dress, leading to Clinton’s impeachment in the late 1990s. This scandal dominated global news and raised issues of power dynamics and personal conduct in high office.
7. Harvey Weinstein’s Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Unfortunately, there have been many celebrity scandals in recent memory surrounding sexual assault. Many of these allegations came after film mogul Harvey Weinstein was accused of multiple sexual misconduct allegations in 2017.
Rose McGowan, Cate Blanchett, Gwyneth Paltrow, and many other actresses in the industry came forward through the #MeToo movement. Weinstein’s subsequent trial and conviction prompted a reassessment of sexual politics and power abuse in Hollywood.
8. Michael Jackson’s Court Cases
Michael Jackson is a platinum, Grammy-winning artist with beloved hits like “Thriller” and “Beat It.” However, many people wrestle with enjoying his work after knowing about the several allegations of child sexual abuse over the years.
While acquitted in 2005, the allegations affected his public image and career. The scandal resurfaced with the 2019 documentary “Leaving Neverland,” which led to a re-evaluation of his entire legacy.
9. Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s Legal Battles
Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s marriage ended in accusations of abuse on both sides, this led to a highly publicized libel trial in 2020 and significant damage to both of their careers that seems beyond repair.
The trial aired their dirty laundry in public and sparked debates about domestic abuse and celebrity culture. Fans and critics are still divided on who is wrong and who is right in this scandal.
10. R. Kelly’s Sex Ring
Recent allegations against P. Diddy have come to light, reminding the public of one of the biggest celebrity scandals in the 2000s. R&B artist R. Kelly was accused of 18 charges, including child sexual exploitation, child pornography production, sex trafficking, kidnapping, forced labor, racketeering, and obstruction of justice.
When Kelly was indicted in 2002, many people were in an uproar believing he was leading a sex ring and got off too easily. However, that all changed when he was convicted in 2021 and 2022, resulting in 31 years in prison.
Endless Celebrity Scandals
Whether it’s because of their place in the public eye or the nature of their crimes and misdemeanors, celebrities often experience a significant fall from grace after a scandal. Some celebrity scandals are divorces that turn ugly, while others involve serious crimes like murder, child abuse, and sexual misconduct.
No matter how severe the offense, these scandals have the power to alter the celebrity’s career forever. Some can stage epic comebacks, while others never recover from their damaged reputation.
Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.
